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Oceania · PolynesiaOutline guideCountry in Oceania
Photo: Created by: Vardion. Uploaded by: EugeneZelenko., Public domain via Wikimedia Commons
Tonga (pronounced TO-ngah), the "Friendly Islands", is an archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean, consisting of 169 islands, of which 36 are inhabited. The tourist industry is relatively undeveloped. Cruise ships often stop in Vavaʻu, which has a reputation for its whale watching, game fishing, surfing, and beaches.
Answers to what travellers most often look up about Tonga.
Tap water is generally safe, though its quality might vary by location.
An outbreak of chikungunya, a mosquito-borne disease, started in 2014, so take precautions against mosquito bites. An outbreak of Dengue fever was also reported in early 2015. There is no malaria in Tonga though.
Tongans in general tend to have a relaxed attitude towards life. They place a lot of emphasis on humility and hospitality.
Covered in the guide
Attractions, food, stays and travel essentials, with ratings, reviews, opening hours and directions.
Public transport and paid services in Tonga.
To get between island groups, you basically have to fly (or sail).
Apps for booking a taxi or a ride in Tonga.
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Nuku'alofa · International · TBU
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Calculated from climate averages: mild daytime highs and lower rainfall. It does not account for festivals, crowds or prices.
Average conditions in Nuku'alofa
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg. high | 27° | 27° | 27° | 27° | 25° | 24° | 23° | 23° | 23° | 24° | 25° | 26° |
| Avg. low | 26° | 27° | 27° | 26° | 24° | 23° | 22° | 22° | 22° | 23° | 24° | 25° |
| Rainfall (mm) | 197 | 197 | 197 | 170 | 112 | 100 | 67 | 81 | 83 | 88 | 111 | 115 |
| Humidity | 82% | 81% | 82% | 80% | 79% | 78% | 77% | 78% | 79% | 79% | 80% | 80% |
Choose your passport and destination to see whether you need a visa.
Budget
$75
Per person, per day
Mid-range
$205
Per person, per day
Luxury
$540
Per person, per day
| Budget | Mid-range | Luxury | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $35 | $115 | $310 |
| Food and drink | $20 | $45 | $110 |
| Local transport | $10 | $20 | $50 |
| Activities | $10 | $25 | $70 |
Estimate from World Bank price levels (2025). Actual costs vary by city and season. World Bank
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We do not label countries as safe or unsafe. Below is the official advice from two governments, with the date it was last updated. Always read the full advice before you travel.
US Department of State
Level 1 of 4Exercise normal precautions
Exercise normal precaution in Tonga. Review the Travel Guidance for additional information on travel to Tonga.
UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
No advice against travel. Read the full advice before you go.
Global travel impacts due to escalation in the Middle East Escalation in the Middle East has caused widespread travel disruption, including airspace closures, delayed and cancelled flights. Your travel plans may be affected, even if your destination is not in the Middle East. Before you travel: check travel advice for any countries or territories you are transiting through check for the latest updates from your airline or tour operator review your travel insurance policy for coverage monitor local and international media for the latest information and sign up for travel advice email alerts Before you travel No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: see general advice for women travellers read our guide on disability and travel abroad see general advice for LGBT+ travellers read about safety for solo and independent travel see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad Travel insurance If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency. About FCDO travel advice The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice. Get travel advice updates Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated. Follow FCDO: travel advice on X travel advice on Facebook Travel Aware on Instagram
Stories, itineraries and practical advice for travelling in Tonga.
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